(content by Pete M)
The Eiffel Tower. Big Ben. The Colosseum.
When you ask people about their travel bucket list, these are the top items you’ll commonly find. And for good reason. They are iconic places that you will want to see at some point in your life.
Unfortunately, many people are creating a bucket list just to have items to check off without really thinking about how to enjoy the actual trip. These places come with long lines, expensive tickets and a rushed experience. If you have ever been to the Sistine Chapel then you know what a let down it is to be herded in and then rushed out before you have a chance to see anything.
Instead, create a bucket list of things that don’t require standing in long lines and that allow you to actually see the world and experience all the wonders it contains.
In this article, I will give you a few items to put on your bucket list that you will actually enjoy.
1 – An African Safari
Imagine being far from civilization under the stars and hearing the hyenas laughing their distinctive laugh. Or, having nothing but a camera lens between you and a lion in his own habitat.
This is travel in its truest sense of the word. Travel should be an enriching experience that leaves you with more than you expected to receive. And being on a safari is a way to add a once in a lifetime experience to your bucket list.
You can experience this in any part of Africa, but the top destinations are the Serengeti in Tanzania, Kruger National Park in South Africa and Masai Mara, Kenya. You can go in style by luxury Africa safaris with Africa Odyssey.
2 – Seeing the Northern Lights
If you are the type that loves winter then traveling way up north is a no brainer to see the Northern Lights. The best part is that you can see them in Canada, Scandinavia, or Russia so your trip can include many other things you’d like to do.
Iceland should be at the top of your list as the scenery is as spectacular as it gets. During the day head to places like the Blue Lagoon and soak in the hot springs. Or, take a day to explore the gorges and waterfalls before heading back to the hotel to enjoy the lights with a glass of wine in hand.
The best time of year to see them is from September/October to March/April.
3 – Moroccan Medina Tour
If you are an adventurous eater and thrive in the hustle and bustle then you will love doing a tour of a traditional Moroccan medina. It is a labyrinth that only locals know how to navigate so make sure to hire a guide. Then strap in and enjoy all the sights, smells and sounds as you wander through the market that seems like it is trapped in time from centuries past.
You can buy all kinds of traditional artisan goods, spices of every variety and of course street food that will challenge your taste buds in the best possible way.
You’ll eat plenty of olives and preserved lemons, but the highlights will be chicken tagine and couscous, chickpea stews and of course desserts dripping with honey. Top it all off with a cup of mint tea sweetened to perfection.
